A place where all young people can share their ideas, knowledge and experience of volunteering. This blog has been set up to encourage more young people to get involved in volunteering projects that match their interests and enhance their career prospects.

Thursday, 8 April 2010

Getting Started

It looks as though some of my blog posts have inspired readers to think about volunteering, which is great to see. If you are considering becoming a volunteer but don't know where to start then this blog post should be your next read.

Think about these questions, they should help you to get a better understanding of the type of voluntary activity that would suit you best...here we go!

What motivates you?
What are your career ambitions?
Do you like meeting new people?
Do you want to learn new skills or use existing skills?
Do you want to make a difference in your local community?
Do you want to build your confidence?
Do you like animals?
Do you have a special talent for mentoring, training or teaching?
Are you artistic?
Do you have good computer skills?
Do you want to work with the elderly?
Are you good at making things?
Can you speak any languages?
Can you play any musical instruments?
Do you have a driving licence?

Hopefully some of these questions have made you think about your own interests and capabilities. So what kind of voluntary activities can you get involved in? Here are a few ideas...

Organising local events
Befriending and Buddying
Gardening
Marketing and Fundraising
Youth work
Shop assistant
Collections officer
Kitchen assistant
Business Development
Driver

To find out about volunteering opportunities in your local area, visit these sites:

Directgov: http://bit.ly/dcU4ak 
Do-it.org: http://www.do-it.org.uk/

Good luck and don't forget to let me know how you get on!

2 comments:

  1. Thanks for this info. great help! I think the first question is the most important. You have to be part of something that motivates you because it can be hard work and in reality, there are few rewards.

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  2. Thanks Sarah, you gave me the idea for another blog post, take a look at:
    http://portchesterv.blogspot.com/2010/05/volunteers-to-be-rewarded.html

    Would be great to hear your thoughts...

    ReplyDelete